A Leamington Indian restaurant’s head chef has won a prestigious national award.

Shahid Ahmed, of Bombay Restaurant at 38-40 Regent Street, was named Best Chef at the National Curry Awards 2026 ceremony which took place at

The Palace of Westminster in London recently.

The award marks the first win for both Bombay and Shahid at the National Curry Awards, adding another significant accolade to the restaurant’s growing collection of honours and further recognising the team’s dedication to exceptional Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine.

Nissa and Shahid Ahmed, with Mayor of Swanley Cllr Michael Horwood and Iftie Ahmed at the National Curry Awards. Picture supplied.

placeholder image — Nissa and Shahid Ahmed, with Mayor of Swanley Cllr Michael Horwood and Iftie Ahmed at the National Curry Awards. Picture supplied.

Shahid’s success follows an impressive run of award-winning achievements for Bombay.

Under the guidance of restaurant owner Iftie Ahmed, a veteran of the Indian restaurant industry with 40 years of experience, Shahid has developed his culinary skills and established himself as a chef whose talent, commitment and passion for food continue to make a lasting impression.

Shahid’s award adds to Bombay’s recent success at the Curry Life Awards, where the restaurant won Best Restaurant in 2023, followed by Editor’s Choice in 2024 before Shahid was named Best Chef in 2025.

Iftie said Shahid’s achievement is a proud moment for him that reflects years of dedication to developing talent and maintaining high standards.

Having spent over four decades in the industry, Iftie has built his reputation on a passion for Indian cuisine and a commitment to passing on his knowledge to the next generation of chefs.

He said the latest award is also a celebration of the wider Bombay team, with Nissa Ahmed managing and delivery outstanding service from the front of house staff.

For more information about the National Curry Awards visit nationalcurryawards.co.uk